2013-cfl-rule-book2014015205

CFL OFFICIAL PLAYING RULES

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THE OFFICIAL PLAYING RULESFOR THE

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE2013

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE50 WELLINGTON STREET EAST

THIRD FLOORTORONTO, ONTARIO

M5E 1C8PHONE: 416-322-9650FAX: 416-322-9651

CFL.caLCF.ca

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE 2013


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Canadian Football League Directory --------------------------------------------------------- 4CFL Rules Committee ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5CFL Officiating Department -------------------------------------------------------------------- 5CFL On-Field Officials ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6CFL Tie-Breaking Procedure ------------------------------------------------------------------- 7Legend Of Abbreviations ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7Plan Of The Playing Field------------------------------------------------------------------------ 8Summary Of Penalties---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 92013 CFL Rule Changes ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 10RULE 1 CONDUCT OF THE GAME--------------------------------------------- 11-25Section 1 The Field------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11Section 2 The Ball -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 11Section 3 Possession---------------------------------------------------------------------- 12Section 4 Dead Ball ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 12Section 5 Teams ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13Section 6 Team Captains----------------------------------------------------------------- 13Section 7 Starting & Timing -------------------------------------------------------------- 14Section 8 Tie Game ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 17Section 9 Out Of Bounds ----------------------------------------------------------------- 18Section 10 Playing Uniforms--------------------------------------------------------------- 20Section 11 Team Personnel --------------------------------------------------------------- 22Section 12 Other Personnel --------------------------------------------------------------- 24RULE 2 OFFICIALS ----------------------------------------------------------------- 26-27Section 1 Designation Of Officials ------------------------------------------------------ 26Section 2 Jurisdiction & Duties Of Officials------------------------------------------- 26RULE 3 SCORING ------------------------------------------------------------------- 28-30Section 1 Table Of Scores---------------------------------------------------------------- 28Section 2 Definitions ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 28Section 3 Terminating A Play In Goal ------------------------------------------------- 30Section 4 Miscellaneous ------------------------------------------------------------------ 30RULE 4 SCRIMMAGE--------------------------------------------------------------- 31-37Section 1 Definitions ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 31Section 2 Method Of Scrimmage ------------------------------------------------------- 31Section 3 Interference --------------------------------------------------------------------- 33Section 4 Placement Of The Ball ------------------------------------------------------- 34Section 5 Player Restrictions ------------------------------------------------------------ 34Section 6 Series Of Downs--------------------------------------------------------------- 36RULE 5 KICKING--------------------------------------------------------------------- 38-44Section 1 Definitions ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 38Section 2 Kickoff ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 39Section 3 Blocked Kick -------------------------------------------------------------------- 41Section 4 Kick From Scrimmage & Open-Field Kick------------------------------- 41

TABLE OF CONTENTS


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RULE 6 PASSING-------------------------------------------------------------------- 45-51Section 1 Lateral Or Onside Pass ------------------------------------------------------ 45Section 2 Handoff Pass ------------------------------------------------------------------- 45Section 3 Offside Pass -------------------------------------------------------------------- 45Section 4 Forward Pass------------------------------------------------------------------- 46RULE 7 FOULS & PENALTIES -------------------------------------------------- 52-57Section 1 Illegal Tactics ------------------------------------------------------------------- 52Section 2 Major Fouls---------------------------------------------------------------------- 53Section 3 Disqualification ----------------------------------------------------------------- 56Section 4 Objectionable Conduct ------------------------------------------------------- 56RULE 8 APPLICATION OF PENALTIES -------------------------------------- 58-62Section 1 Definitions ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 58Section 2 Fouls After Legal Gains------------------------------------------------------ 58Section 3 Double & Dual Fouls---------------------------------------------------------- 58Section 4 Restrictions Near A Goal Line---------------------------------------------- 60Section 5 Foul On Convert --------------------------------------------------------------- 61Section 6 Foul In Goal --------------------------------------------------------------------- 61Section 7 Fouls Which Occur on the Last Play of a Quarter--------------------- 62RULE 9 INTERFERENCE---------------------------------------------------------- 63-64Section 1 Definition------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63Section 2 Interference On Scrimmage Plays ---------------------------------------- 63Section 3 Interference After Gaining Possession Without Scrimmage-------- 64Section 4 Interference on Loose Ball -------------------------------------------------- 64REFEREES SIGNALS -------------------------------------------------------------------- 65-69INSTANT REPLAY-------------------------------------------------------------------------- 70-80STATISTICAL SCORING RULES ------------------------------------------------------ 81-91INDEX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 92-97

Cover Design by Barnstorm CreativeCover Photo by Peter McCabeContent compiled and entered by Darren Hackwood, Glen Johnson and AndreProulxThe CFL Official Rule Book is published annually by the Canadian FootballLeague. Any inquiries regarding the CFL Official Playing Rules may be directedto Glen Johnson, Officiating Technical Advisor, @ [email protected].


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Commissioners OfficeMark Cohon CommissionerMichael Copeland President & Chief Operating OfficerSue Bolender Executive Assistant, Commissioners OfficeExecutiveDoug Allison Vice-President, Finance & Business OperationsMatt Maychak Vice-President, Communications & BroadcastKevin McDonald Vice-President, Football OperationsSara Moore Vice-President, MarketingAdrian Sciarra Vice-President, Commercial AssetsStaffKelley Ainley Office Manager & Hotel CoordinatorTom Angelidis Director, Retail Development, LicensingShannon Ballard Director, MarketingSean Bell Director, Digital AssetsVictoria Regina Chico Accounting ClerkJames Clark Manager, Database MarketingLoic Dalle Manager, Marketing AssetsSteve Daniel Head StatisticianJoseph DeBenedictis Video Editor, Digital MediaJamie Dykstra Director, Communications & BroadcastCurtis Emerson Director, Events & ProductionTalia Freilich Account Manager, PartnershipsChris Gallipeau Producer, Digital MediaDarren Hackwood Manager, OfficiatingTrevor Hardy Director, Finance & Business OperationsTom Higgins Director, OfficiatingRyan Janzen Director, Football OperationsDax Johnston Coordinator, LicensingTyler Mazereeuw Senior Director, Business DevelopmentAmanda Moss Senior Account Manager, PartnershipsStephen Nichol Manager, LicensingRichard Obrand Coordinator, Digital MediaJosh Oubadia Manager, Events & ProductionMatt Peressini Coordinator, Football OperationsOlivier Poulin Manager, CommunicationsNora Rigodon ControllerLarry Robertson CFL Stats & HistoryJonathan Rubinoff Manager, Digital MediaCeline Seguin Manager, Events & ProductionChris Sonnemann Director, TechnologyDaniella Volpini Coordinator, Marketing

CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE


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CFL RULES COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON:Mark Cohon CommissionerVOTING MEMBERS:Jim Popp Montral AlouettesJim Barker Toronto ArgonautsScott Mitchell Hamilton Tiger-CatsTim Burke Winnipeg Blue BombersJim Hopson Saskatchewan RoughridersJohn Hufnagel Calgary StampedersKavis Reed Edmonton EskimosWally Buono B.C. LionsTom Higgins Director, Officiating, CFLGlen Johnson CPFOAMarwan Hage CFLPA

DIRECTOR, OFFICIATINGTom Higgins Calgary, ABOFFICIATING TECHNICAL ADVISORGlen Johnson Etobicoke, ONMANAGER, OFFICIATINGDarren Hackwood Toronto, ONAMATEUR FOOTBALL OFFICIATING TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENTCOORDINATORDave Hutton Burlington, ONCFL OFFICIATING SUPERVISORS & EVALUATORSDave Hutton, Burlington, ONKen Lazaruk, Winnipeg, MBAlan McColman, Hamilton, ONRick McFadyen, Montral, QCKen Picot, Regina, SK

Bob Reddekopp, Calgary, ABLarry Rohan, Vancouver, BCBud Steen, Edmonton, ABDave Yule, Nanaimo, BCGeorge Black, Collingwood, ON

CFL OFFICIATING POSITION COACHESGeorge Black, Collingwood, ONJake Ireland, Simcoe, ON

Alan McColman, Hamilton, ONBill Wright, Edmonton, AB

CFL INSTANT REPLAY OFFICIALSJake Ireland, Simcoe, ON Alan McColman, Hamilton, ON

CFL OFFICIATING DEPARTMENT

CFL RULES COMMITTEE


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NAME------------------------- NO --------- POSITIONCarey Anderson------------ 42 ---------- Back JudgeDarryl Baron----------------- 49 ---------- Field JudgeRon Barss-------------------- 25 ---------- Head LinesmanRick Berezowski------------ 43 ---------- Line JudgeAl Bradbury------------------ 72 ---------- RefereeBlair Brown ------------------ 44 ---------- Line JudgeLarry Butler ------------------ 59 ---------- Back JudgeJim Carlisle ------------------ 71 ---------- Side JudgeDon Carmichael ------------ 21 ---------- Side JudgeMarty Carreau -------------- 57 ---------- Head LinesmanThomas Cesari ------------- 36 ---------- Line JudgeBrian Chrupalo-------------- 73 ---------- Field JudgeMurray Clarke--------------- 22 ---------- RefereeDon Cousens --------------- 35 ---------- Head LinesmanSteve Dolyniuk-------------- 56 ---------- Field JudgeDave Donaldson ----------- 39 ---------- Side JudgeDave Foxcroft --------------- 30 ---------- RefereeMike Foxcroft---------------- 65 ---------- Line JudgeDave Gatza------------------ 75 ---------- Side JudgeJeff Harbin ------------------- 27 ---------- Back JudgeRob Hand -------------------- 68 ---------- Side JudeDave Hawkshaw ----------- 23 ---------- Side JudgeRob Hill ----------------------- 63 ---------- Head LinesmanGlen Johnson --------------- 32 ---------- RefereeTim Kroeker ----------------- 74 ---------- Field JudgeJason Maggio--------------- 37 ---------- Field JudgeBen Major -------------------- 31 ---------- UmpirePatrick MacArthur---------- 61 ---------- UmpireJustin McInnes-------------- 67 ---------- Head LinesmanRitchie Miller ---------------- 34 ---------- UmpireKim Murphy------------------ 48 ---------- RefereeAdam Paradowski --------- 45 ---------- UmpireJocelyn Paul----------------- 47 ---------- Back JudgeMichel Pinsonneault------- 33 ---------- Head LinesmanAndre Proulx ---------------- 28 ---------- RefereeCam Schwieder ------------ 29 ---------- Line JudgeRob Skaggs ----------------- 46 ---------- Side JudgeParry Steen------------------ 55 ---------- UmpireBrett Strong------------------ 40 ---------- Line JudgeBryan Taylor----------------- 51 ---------- Field JudgeGordon Unger--------------- 50 ---------- UmpireTom Vallesi ------------------ 60 ---------- RefereeRETIRED NUMBERS26 - Don Barker --------16 - Ross Perrier---------38 - Lorne Woods

CFL ON-FIELD OFFICIALS


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When two or more member Clubs are tied in the final Division standings at theconclusion of the regular season schedule, preferential ranking for playoffpurposes shall be determined on the basis of the following descending-orderpriorities and shall be awarded to the Club that:a) has won the greater number of games played against all member Clubs of theLeague, thenb) has the higher winning percentage in all games played against all of the othertied Club(s), thenc) has scored the higher net aggregate of points (i.e. points scored for lesspoints scored against) in all games played against all of the other tied Club(s),thend) has scored the higher net quotient of points (i.e. points scored for divided bypoints scored against) in all games played against all of the other tied Club(s),thene) has the higher winning percentage in all games played against all memberClubs of the Division, thenf) has scored the higher net aggregate of points in games played against allmember Clubs of the Division, theng) has scored the higher quotient of points in games played against all memberClubs of the Division, thenh) has scored the higher net aggregate of points in games played against allmember Clubs of the League, theni) has scored the higher net quotient of points in games played against allmember Clubs of the League, thenj) has won a coin toss against the other tied Club.Note: If two Clubs remain tied after other Club(s) are eliminated during any step,tie breaker reverts to step a).

AFD Automatic First Down L25 Loss of 25 yardsAR Approved Ruling LB Loss of Ball1D First Down LD Loss of Down12D First or Second Down LS Line of Scrimmage3D Third Down PBD Point Ball DeadTeam A Team putting ball into play PBH Point Ball HeldTeam B Other Team PF Point of FoulDR Down Repeated PLS Point of Last ScrimmageL5 Loss of 5 yards PPG Point Possession GainedL10 Loss of 10 yards YG Yards GainedL15 Loss of 15 yards YNG Yards Not Gained

CFL TIE-BREAKING PROCEDURE

LEGEND OF ABBREVIATIONS


8

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

55

50

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

5

PLAN OF THE PLAYING FIELD

20 YA

RDS

110Y

ARDS

20 YA

RDS

65 YARDS

GOAL LINE

DEADLINE

GOAL LINE

DEADLINE

GOAL AREA

18'6"

24 YDS

10'

40'

FILED

OF P

LAY


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5-YARD PENALTIESIllegal Handoff Pass Kickoff Out Of BoundsIllegal Procedure PyramidingOffside Time CountNo Yards

10-YARD PENALTIESContacting the Kicker Objectionable Conduct *Delay Of Game HoldingPass Interference Illegal BlockIllegal Contact On A Receiver Second Forward Pass On A PlayIllegal Participation Taunting *Sleeper Play Too Many PlayersIllegal Substitution TrippingIneligible Receiver Use Of An Illegal SubstanceLate Start Unauthorized Person On FieldPunt Out Of Bounds In Flight

15-YARD PENALTIES*Chop Block Hazardous EquipmentClipping Piling OnCrackback Block Roughing The PasserCut Block Roughing The KickerFace Masking Unnecessary RoughnessNo Yards

25-YARD PENALTIES*Illegal Deployment Of Rough PlayDesignated Quarterback Or Objectionable Conduct PhysicalDesignated Import Abuse of OfficialSpitting

DISQUALIFICATION*Hazardous Equipment Rough PlayExcessive Objectionable Conduct Objectionable Conduct PhysicalSpitting Abuse of Official

AUTOMATIC FIRST DOWNPass Interference Unnecessary RoughnessRough Play Illegal Interference On Loose Ball

LOSS OF DOWNTime Count Intentional Grounding(in last 3 Minutes of a Half,except on 3rd down)* NOTE: The penalty shall be applied in addition to any yardage gained or scoremade.

SUMMARY OF PENALTIES


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1) Rule 1, Section 7 Article 5 Team Time Out (Page 17)Restriction previously placed on team time outs limiting their use to one per halfhas been removed.Sentences added:Each team shall be granted two time outs per game and will be permitted touse them at any point during regulation time, subject to the following:

(a) the time out may be requested by any player on the field, or the HeadCoach, and may be directed to any official on the field,

(b) the time out shall be 30 seconds in duration,(c) the game time will resume on the snap.(d) a team shall not be permitted to request or use a second time out in

the same dead ball period in which they have used a time out,(e) a team may use only one time out in the last three minutes of the

fourth quarter.2) Instant Replay Not Reviewable Plays (Page 71)Field Goal attempts and kicked Convert attempts have been added to the list ofautomatically reviewed aspects of play, regardless if they are ruled successful ornot by the on-field officials.Sentence added to Reviewable Play Types:

(e) Scoring PlaysAll scoring plays will be automatically reviewed by the Replay Official in thecommand centre. This shall include attempts of Field Goals and kickedConverts that have been ruled unsuccessful.

NOTE: All 2013 rule changes have been printed in bold.

2013 CFL RULE CHANGES


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SECTION 1 THE FIELDArticle 1 Regulation FieldsThe field shall be 110 yards long by 65 yards wide. It shall be distinctly markedas indicated herein:

The lines marking the sides of the field shall be named Sidelines. The lines marking the ends of the field shall be named Goal Lines. The area bounded by these two sets of lines shall be called the Field of

Play. Twenty yards behind each Goal Line, and parallel to it, shall be marked a

line named the Dead Line. The Sidelines extended from Goal Line to Dead Line shall be named the

Sidelines in Goal. The area bounded by the Goal Line, the Dead Line and the Sidelines in

Goal shall be named the Goal Area. The bounds shall be defined as the inside of the Sidelines, Sidelines in

Goal and Dead Lines. The Field of Play shall be marked every 5 yards with lines extending from

Sideline to Sideline and parallel to the Goal Lines. Twenty-four yards in from each Sideline each 5-yard stripe shall be marked

by a short cross stripe parallel to the Sidelines (Hash Marks). Markers shall be placed opposite each 5-yard line from the Goal Line,

indicating the distance of each such line from the Goal Line toward the centre ofthe field.

The four intersections of Goal Lines and Sidelines and the fourintersections of Dead Lines and Sidelines in Goal shall be indicated by flexiblemarkers that must be placed so that they are not touching the surface of theplaying field.

Vertical posts (goal posts) shall be placed and centred on each Goal Line.The distance between the posts shall be 18 feet 6 inches. The goal posts shallextend 40 feet above ground level and shall be joined by a crossbar parallel tothe ground at a height of 10 feet. The diameter of each post above the crossbarshall be not less than 3 inches or greater than 4 inches.

At the extreme top of each post, there shall be attached a coloured ribbon 4inches wide and 42 inches long. A wishbone type or single-shaft goal postassembly may be used, provided that it complies with the above standards andthe base of the assembly is not further than 75 inches from the Goal Line.Article 2 Fields Less Than Regulation SizeIf the regulation length of a field is not available because of a fence, a runningtrack or any other object, a clear line of demarcation shall be established at leastone foot toward the playing surface from such fence, track or object.A line shall be painted on the playing surface and shall be considered as theboundary line. A player who touches this line, the surface outside the line or anyobject outside the line shall be ruled as having gone Out of Bounds.SECTION 2 THE BALLThe game is played with a ball made of Wilson Exclusive Game ball Leather infour panels that shall be inflated to a pressure not less than 12 1/2 psi nor greater

RULE 1 CONDUCT OF THE GAME


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than 13 1/2 psi. The circumference of the long axis shall be not less than 27 inches nor greater than 28 1/4 inches. The circumference of the girth or shortaxis shall be not less than 20 7/8 inches nor greater than 21 1/8 inches. Thelength of the long axis shall be not less than 11 inches nor greater than 11 1/4inches. The total weight of the ball shall not be less than 14 ounces nor greaterthan 15 ounces. The exposed laces shall be not more than 4 3/8 inches in lengthand 1 1/8 inches in width.The ball shall be painted with 1-inch white stripes around the short axis,commencing 3 inches away from the point of greatest circumference of the shortaxis.A minimum of twelve balls shall be used in a game and changed at the discretionof the Referee. The balls shall be kept clean and in playable condition.The official football for a Canadian Football League game shall be the WilsonCFL Official Game Ball, which shall be inscribed with the signature of theCommissioner.SECTION 3 POSSESSIONPossession means having the ball firmly held in hand or hands, arm or arms, legor legs, or under the body.When players of the opposite teams have possession of the ball, it shall belongto the player who first gained possession and who has not lost possession.If players of both teams legally gain possession of the ball simultaneously, it shallbelong to the team that last previously had possession.A ball not in possession of a player is still in play. A ball shall be considered tohave been fumbled if the player last in possession has lost control of it.If a kicked ball other than a kickoff is legally touched by a player of either team,such touching shall be deemed to be possession.SECTION 4 DEAD BALLThe ball is dead:

Whenever a field official blows the whistle When an official has signalled a score When the ball goes Out of Bounds When a forward pass is declared incomplete When a kicked ball strikes the opponents goal post assembly in flight,

without first touching the ground, a player or an official When the ball carrier is tackled and the forward progress has been halted

(tackling is defined as the act of grasping or encircling a ball carrier with handsand arms)

When the ball carrier behind the line of scrimmage is firmly in the grasp andcontrol of a tackler to the extent that the ball cannot be thrown

When a ball carrier is tackled and driven back towards the ball carriers ownGoal Line, an official must assume that an attempt was being made to advancethe ball and that only the actual contact with an opponent prevented such


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advance. Therefore, the most forward point of advance shall be considered thepoint where the ball became dead

When the ball carrier is contacted by an opponent and loses balance so thata portion of the body, other than hands or feet touches the ground, the ball shallbe dead at the point where it was held when touching the ground, or the pointwhere the ball was held when contacted, whichever is the furthest point ofadvance

When the quarterback, in possession of the ball, intentionally kneels on theground during the last three minutes of a half

When the quarterback, in possession of the ball, dives in a feet first slidingmotion, the ball shall be declared dead at the point it was held when another partof the quarterbacks body, other than hands or feet, touch the ground

When a player, having possession of the ball in their own Goal Area,intentionally kneels on the ground

When a ball carrier is on the ground and, in the judgment of the official, is notattempting to advance the ball, the official shall immediately declare the balldead.

If a ball carrier's helmet comes off, the play shall be blown dead immediately.NOTE: A ball lying on the ground and not in possession of a player is not dead. A

ball striking an official is not dead except on a forward pass.SECTION 5 TEAMSFor reference hereinafter, the team that puts the ball in play shall be identified asTeam A and the other team shall be named Team B. The game is played byteams of 12 players.SECTION 6 TEAM CAPTAINSAt all times, each team must have on the field a player designated as captain,and so identified to the Referee.The captain shall be the sole communicator between the team and the officials(through the Referee) and may appeal to the Referee only on questions ofinterpretation and application of rules. Such consultations should be held apartfrom other players on the field.The captain may request the Referee to call in the yardsticks to determinewhether a first down has been made or how much distance is required. If in thejudgment of the Referee, the position of the ball is within one yard of the firstdown marker, time out shall be signalled and a measure called for. Otherwise,the request shall be denied and play resumed.The Referees decision cannot be disputed. A captain is entitled to anexplanation of any decision but no prolonged argument is to be allowed. Whenthe yardsticks are called in from the Sidelines to determine whether a first downhas been gained, the on-field captain for each team shall be the only playerspermitted in the vicinity of the measurement.In case of a foul, the captain of the non-offending team shall be given the choiceof the penalty or the option provided.


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SECTION 7 STARTING & TIMINGArticle 1 StartingThe game shall start promptly at the time prescribed by the Commissioner. If theteam is late appearing on the field at the start of the first or third periods, they willbe penalized.PENALTY: L10At the start of the game, the captains of both teams shall meet the Referee atcentre field. The Referee shall toss a coin with the visiting team captain makingthe call. The captain of the team winning the coin toss shall declare whether tohave first choice at the start of the first or second half.The captain of the team having first choice at the start of the first half shallchoose between:

(a) kicking off or receiving the kickoff or,(b) which end of the field to defend.

The captain of the other team shall have first choice at the start of the secondhalf, when both captains shall again meet the Referee at centre field to maketheir choices.Article 2 Playing & Rest PeriodsThe length of game shall be 60 minutes of actual playing time, divided into fourperiods of 15 minutes each. The scoreboard clock shall be the official time forthe game and shall be operated under the direction and control of theTimekeeper. (See Rule 2, Section 2, Article 10).Goals shall be changed at the end of the first and third periods. At the start ofthe second and fourth periods, the ball shall be put into play at a pointcorresponding exactly to the point at the other end of the field where the ballbecame dead at the end of the previous period. It shall be put into play in exactlythe same manner as if play had not been interrupted.The kickoff to start the second half shall take place at exactly 14 minutes afterthe conclusion of the first half and a team shall be subject to penalty if the playersare not lined up on the field ready to start the second half at that time.PENALTY: L10Article 3 Time OutTime shall start when the ball is touched following the kickoff at the start of a half,or after a scoring play, and shall continue until the ball is ruled dead and anofficial signals to the timekeeper that time shall stop for any of the followingreasons:

When a score has been made When the ball goes Out of Bounds When a forward pass is incomplete For the application of penalties For player substitution For delay caused by player injury When time expires at the end of each period


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When the ball becomes dead after the three-minute warning has been givenin any half

When a player or head coach requests a team timeout For a convert attempt during the last three minutes of a half When the Referee deems it necessary to suspend play.

If in any period the ball becomes dead with only a short period of time remaining,the team in possession shall be entitled to one complete play even though thatplay may extend beyond the normal termination of that period.If a touchdown is scored on the last play of a period, the period shall be extendedto include the convert attempt.Article 4 Time InAfter a time out for any reason, time shall start again on the signal of the Refereefor any of the following reasons:

When the ball is touched following a kickoff When it is ready to be scrimmaged When it is snapped immediately after a time count foul When it is snapped on the play immediately following a time out due to crowd

noise When it is snapped following a team time out When it is snapped after Team A creates two consecutive fouls prior to the

ball being put legally into play prior to the last three minutes of any half When it is snapped on the play immediately following a kickoff or a kick from

scrimmage or an open-field kick during the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a play during which possession

changed in the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following an incomplete legal forward pass

in the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a time out caused by the ball being

carried Out of Bounds during the last three minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following a score during the last three

minutes in any half When it is snapped immediately following the application of a penalty for a

foul that occurs after the three-minute warning signal has been given in any halfhowever, the non-offending team may decline the penalty and permit time toresume as though a foul had not occurred

When it is snapped immediately following the application of dual penaltiesduring the last three minutes of a half.

When it is snapped after Team A commits an offensive foul prior to the snap,inside their own 25 yd line or on any convert attempt.If, during the last three minutes of a half, an infraction is committed before theball can be snapped the non-offending team may:

(a) accept the penalty, in which case time shall resume on the snap or,(b) decline the penalty and elect whether time shall resume on the snap or

when the Referee declares the ball in play.After a touchdown, time shall stop and shall resume when the Referee declaresthe ball in play for a convert attempt, except during the last three minutes of ahalf, when time shall resume when the ball is touched on the ensuing kickoff.


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Article 5 Team Time OutEach team shall be granted two time outs per game and will be permitted touse them at any point during regulation time, subject to the following:

(a) the time out may be requested by any player on the field, or the HeadCoach, and may be directed to any official on the field,

(b) the time out shall be 30 seconds in duration,(c) the game time will resume on the snap.(d) a team shall not be permitted to request or use a second time out in

the same dead ball period in which they have used a time out,(e) a team may use only one time out in the last three minutes of the

fourth quarter.Article 6 Instant Replay ReviewAn Instant Replay Review request, challenging the ruling on the field, may onlybe initiated by the Head Coach, who will throw a challenge flag onto the field,prior to the legal snap of the ball.Each team will have the ability to execute two (2) challenges per game, if a teamis successful on both, they will gain the opportunity to execute a third challenge.The first challenge will have no impact on team time outs, regardless of theoutcome of the challenge.A second challenge, if unsuccessful, will result in the loss of a team time out.In order to execute a second challenge, a team must have a team time outremaining.In order to execute a third challenge, a team must have been successful on boththeir first two (2) challenges and must have a team time out remaining.A third challenge, if unsuccessful, will result in the loss of a team time out.If both team time outs have been used prior to any challenges, a team willcontinue to have the opportunity for one challenge.Article 7 Ball In PlayThe ball shall be considered in play until an official stops the game by soundingthe whistle.The game shall not be stopped because of player injury until the ball is dead.The Referee shall not stop the game to impose a penalty until the ball is dead.Article 8 Delay Of GameThe game shall not be delayed except by permission of the Referee. Anyunauthorized delay shall be subject to penalty.

(a) If the Referee finds it necessary to suspend play while a player in the gamehas equipment repairs, that player shall be required to leave the game for aminimum of three plays.


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(b) If the Referee finds it necessary to suspend play while an injured playerreceives medical attention on the field, that player shall be required to leave thegame for a minimum of three plays, except when the injury had occurred as adirect result of an infraction for which the opponent was penalized, in which eventthe Referee may waive the requirement for the player to leave the game.

(c) On a kickoff, Team A shall be required to kick the ball within 20 seconds ofnotification by the Referee that play is to commence.

(d) If a Team B player interferes with the placement of the ball after it hasbeen declared in play by the Referee, that team shall be penalized.PENALTY: L10Article 9 Time CountThe Referee shall allow Team A 20 seconds in which to put the ball into play. Ifthe stadium countdown clock is not in operation, the Referee shall be the solejudge as to when the time count shall commence, after allowing both teamsreasonable time in which to line up after the preceding play.PENALTY: L5 DR Yardage penalty may be declined.NOTE: After the three-minute warning has been given in a half the penalty shallbe 12D LD, 3D L10 DR.NOTE: The penalty for a time count violation on a convert attempt shall be L5 DRat any time during the game.NOTE: If in the opinion of the Referee, Team A is taking a deliberate third downtime count penalty, the Referee may order Team A to put the ball in play legallywithin 20 seconds or forfeit possession to Team B.Article 10 Crowd NoiseThe Team A captain may request the Referee to stop the game if excessivecrowd noise prevents Team A from putting the ball into play. The Referee maypermit Team A to return to its huddle. The Referee shall allow reasonable timebut under no circumstances shall the play be delayed more than three times.In the event that the home team permits in its stadium the use of either electronicequipment or high volume loudspeakers when the visiting team is attempting toput the ball in play, with the result that the game is delayed, the home team shallbe subject to penalty for delay of game.PENALTY: L10Article 11 Ball In GoalThe ball is in goal if it is on or behind the Goal Line, even in the air.SECTION 8 TIE GAMEIn the event that the score is tied at the end of the second half of a game, eachteam will be given the opportunity to score using the following procedure:

The first team, as determined by coin toss, shall scrimmage the ball at theopponents 35-yard line and may advance by consecutive series of downs until itmakes a score or loses possession.


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The second team will then scrimmage at the same 35-yard line and proceedas above.

If the score is a touchdown, the convert attempt must be a two point attemptscrimmaged from the 5 yd line.

If the score is still tied, the procedure shall be repeated at the opposite end ofthe stadium.

A winner is determined only if both teams have had equal opportunities toscore.

If a winner is not determined after two attempts the game will be declared atie.

If the game is a playoff or championship game and a winner must bedetermined, the same procedure shall continue until a winner is finally declared.SECTION 9 OUT OF BOUNDSArticle 1 DefinitionsThe ball is Out of Bounds when it touches a Sideline, Sideline in Goal, Dead Lineor the ground or any other object on or beyond these lines. The ball is Out ofBounds when a player in possession of the ball touches a Sideline, Sideline inGoal, Dead Line or the ground or any other object on or beyond these lines.NOTE: The ball shall remain in play when it is knocked or batted back into theField of Play by a player who is off the ground and who has not touched theground or any object Out of Bounds, see Rule 1, Section 9, Article 3.NOTE: If a player gains possession of the ball while off the ground in boundsand is contacted by an opponent and lands Out of Bounds in possession of theball, such player shall retain possession.NOTE: A player who gains possession of the ball near the Sideline and touchesthe ground in bounds with the first step shall retain possession even if the nextstep is Out of Bounds.Article 2 Ball Kicked Out Of BoundsWhen the ball is kicked Out of Bounds in the Field of Play, it shall belong to theopposite team, subject to the penalty applicable on a kickoff.Article 3 Ball Fumbled Out Of BoundsWhen, on any play, the ball is fumbled Out of Bounds, or touches a player in theField of Play and then goes Out of Bounds, it shall belong to the team that lasttouched the ball in the Field of Play.A team shall be entitled to possession when a player of the team, while off theground, knocks or bats the ball directly Out of Bounds, provided he lands inbounds.The ball shall next be scrimmaged:

(a) at the point where the ball went Out of Bounds or,(b) at the point where the ball was last touched in the Field of Play, whichever

point is closer to the Goal Line of the team entitled to possession.Article 4 Ball Going Into Opponents Goal Area


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When a player directs the ball, other than by kicking, from the Field of Play overthe opponents Goal Line and hence Out of Bounds in the Goal Area without theball touching an opponent, it shall be ruled as a fumble Out of Bounds in theField of Play, with the ball declared dead at the point where it was last touched inthe Field of Play.Article 5 Ball Going Into Own Goal AreaWhen a player fumbles or directs the ball from the Field of Play into his own GoalArea, where the ball goes Out of Bounds without possession being gained byeither team, a safety touch score shall be awarded.Article 6 Ball Touched In Goal AreaWhen a player directs the ball other than by kicking, from the Field of Play overthe opponents Goal Line where it is recovered by an opponent, or is touched byan opponent before going Out of Bounds in the Goal Area, there shall be noscore and the ball shall be awarded to the opponents team at its 25-yard line. Ifin attempting to run the ball out of the Goal Area, the opponents team commitsan infraction the penalty shall be applied from the 25-yard line.Article 7 Ball Fumbled Out Of Goal AreaWhen a team in its own Goal Area fumbles or directs the ball, other than bykicking, across the Goal Line and Out of Bounds in the Field of Play withouttouching an opponent, the non-offending team may:

(a) accept a two-point score if the offending team had previously directed theball into its own Goal Area or,

(b) accept a one-point score if the non-offending team had kicked the ball intothe Goal Area or,

(c) decline the score and require the team entitled to possession to scrimmagethe ball 24 yards in from the point where the ball went Out of Bounds or,

(d) if prior to the fumble or offside pass Out of Bounds, the players team hadgained possession in its Goal Area by intercepting a forward pass or recoveringan opponents fumble from the Field of Play, it shall be awarded the ball at its 25-yard line without option.Article 8 Illegal ParticipationA player of either team, who goes Out of Bounds, except as a result of bodilycontact, must remain out of that play.NOTE: If a player goes out of bounds, as a result of bodily contact with anopponent, he is not required to remain out of the continuing play. However, inorder to participate further, he must re-establish himself in the field of play with atleast one foot in bounds and no contact with out of bounds.If a player goes out of bounds, as a result of bodily contact with a teammate,which was not initiated by an opponent, he must remain out of that play.PENALTY: L10If such player reaches back into or re-enters the field of play and touches orrecovers a loose ball:PENALTY: LB PF


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A player who loses his helmet shall not be allowed to continue to participate inthe play.PENALTY: L10Article 9 Ball Kicked Out Of Bounds In Own Goal AreaWhen a team in its own Goal Area kicks the ball Out of Bounds in its own GoalArea, the ball shall be deemed to have become dead in the Goal Area and theopponent shall be awarded:

(a) a single point if the ball had been kicked into the Goal Area by theopponent or,

(b) a safety touch score if the ball had been kicked, passed or carried into theGoal Area by the team scored against.If the team in its own Goal Area had gained possession through interception of aforward pass or recovery of an opponents fumble, there shall be no score andthe team shall take possession at its 25-yard line.If, under similar circumstances, a team should kick the ball Out of Bounds in theopponents Goal Area without gaining possession, the play shall be ruled asthough the opponent had kicked the ball out of its own Goal Area.SECTION 10: PLAYING UNIFORMSArticle 1 EquipmentEquipment or apparel that, in the judgment of the Referee, may endanger orconfuse opponents is illegal.The use of metal or other hard objects including casts, guards and braces toprotect body parts, is permitted provided that such are appropriately covered onall edges and surfaces by foam rubber or similar material.PENALTY: L10 PBD. The offending player shall be required to leave the gamefor a minimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the illegalequipment has been removed. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.Article 2 HelmetsA player shall be required to wear a helmet when on the Field of Play and shallnot voluntarily remove it while the play is in progress.PENALTY: L10 PDBNOTE: If a ball carriers helmet comes off, the play shall be blown deadimmediately.Any players chinstrap must be completely fastened prior to the snap.PENALTY: L10 PBD. The offending player shall be required to leave the gamefor three plays.The use of helmets or other objects to deceive opponents as to the whereaboutsof the ball is prohibited.


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PENALTY: L5NOTE: See Rule 7, Section 2, Article 3 & Rule 7, Section 4.Article 3 Numbering Of PlayersEach player shall be conspicuously numbered on the front and back of thejersey, and on the upper arms or shoulders. Such number must correspond withthat listed with the scorer. A player shall retain the same number throughout thegame except when permission to change is given by the Referee. Such changeshall be reported to the scorer.In the event that a Team A player is required to wear a different jersey number inorder to play at a different position, the jersey must be changed in the teambench area. Under no circumstances shall the jersey be changed while theplayer is on the playing field.PENALTY: The offending player shall be removed from the game until the properplaying number is determined. Substitution shall be allowed.Article 4 Illegal SubstanceA player shall not be permitted to wear or apply or have applied on the uniform,equipment or body:

(a) an adhesive substance, a rosin bag or tacky cloth that, in the solejudgment of the Referee, has made the game ball unsuitable for play as a resultof direct or indirect contact with that player, and/or,

(b) a greasy substance that, in the sole judgment of the Referee, has thepotential to give that player an unfair advantage.PENALTY: L10 PBD. The offending player shall be required to leave the gamefor a minimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the illegalsubstance has been removed. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.Article 5 Blood Hazards From Open WoundsIf a player has an open wound that, in the opinion of the Referee, is bleedingsignificantly, then that player will be required to leave the Field of Play to havethe wound properly dressed by club medical staff. The player would be permittedto re-enter the Field of Play after receiving clearance from the Referee.Article 6 Hazardous EquipmentA player shall not be permitted to wear unauthorized equipment (ex. baseballcleats, track spikes or golf shoes) or equipment that has been deliberately alteredso that, in the sole judgment of the Referee, it has the potential to cause injury toan opponent.PENALTY: L15 The offending player shall be disqualified from the game.NOTE: If the infraction is detected during or following a play in which that playerparticipated, the Referee may apply the penalty at the point of origin of that play,or PBD.


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Article 7 Dress CodeA team is required to dress in a professional manner and shall be subject topenalty if a player fails to comply with the following requirements:

(a) The team jersey shall be tucked inside the top of the pants and shallremain tucked in throughout the game. If the jersey is pulled out during thegame, the player shall be required to tuck it in during a break in the play.

(b) Uniform stockings shall be worn in such manner that no part of the playersknee or leg is exposed.

(c) Protective gear shall be worn underneath the team jersey, pants andstockings. When a short-sleeved jersey is worn, the color of protective gear onthe elbow or lower arm shall be the same as one of the basic colors of the team.

(d) The team uniform shall not be cut away or altered in any mannerwhatsoever.

(e) White tape may be used on wrists and hands, but tape used on stockingsor any part of the uniform shall be the same color as the uniform or equipment itcovers.

(f) Shoes of a standard football design, with appropriate football cleating, thathave not been altered, deliberately or otherwise, in any manner and judgedsuitable by the Referee for the playing surface, may be used. Sneaker typeshoes with no cleating may also be used.PENALTY: L10 PBD The offending player shall be required to leave the game fora minimum of three plays and shall not be permitted to return until the dress codeviolation has been remedied. Substitution for the player shall be allowed.SECTION 11 TEAM PERSONNELArticle 1 Bench AreaThe team bench area shall be a rectangular area situated not closer to theSideline than 6 feet and extending for a distance of 30 yards parallel to theSideline. During a game, the area may be occupied only by substitute players inuniform and other accredited persons including coaches, doctors, trainers,equipment assistants and water carriers. All such personnel are required toremain within the rectangular area with the exception of the coaches, who maytake positions between the bench area and the Sideline. The coaches shall notbe permitted on the playing field at any time during the game, except with thepermission of the Referee.PENALTY: L10Article 2 Official Time OutWhen the Referee has called an official time out, not more than one player ofeach team may proceed to the Sideline to talk with the coach.PENALTY: L10Article 3 Trainers & Injured PlayersDuring a stoppage in play for injury or other reason, not more than tworepresentatives of each team, other than medical personnel, shall be allowed toenter the field.


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The Referee need not permit the attendants of both teams to enter the field incase of injury to a player of one team only and shall indicate such permission tothe attendants of one or both teams.When time out has been called for player injury or equipment repair, that playershall be required to leave the game for a minimum of three plays, except whenthe injury had occurred as a result of an infraction for which the opponent waspenalized.PENALTY: L10 PLS DR or L10 PBD or option.Article 4 Substitution ProcedureA substitute may enter the Field of Play at any time the ball is dead and only atthat time.A substitute who enters the game and communicates with a team mate on thefield must remain in the game for at least one play.A player leaving the game shall proceed directly to the Sideline on which theteam bench is located and, thence, outside the Field of Play to the team bench.A team shall not be permitted to use player substitution as a means of deceivingthe opponents.A team that permits more than 12 players to participate in its huddle or formationbefore the ball is snapped shall be subject to a penalty for illegal substitution.The side officials (Head Linesman and Line Judge) shall monitor the team benchon their sides of the field and, when the ball becomes dead, shall observe thatSideline for possible substitutions. When Team A breaks the huddle, or if nohuddle, and the Referee declares the ball in play, the side officials shall turnaway from the Sidelines and raise their arms to shoulder level. (Raising thegates.) Further substitution shall not be permitted.When, on a kicking play, Team A has only 11 players on the field and the gateshave gone up, a player may enter the field and participate in the play withoutbeing penalized for Illegal Substitution, if he is able to enter the close line playarea and then assume a position, inside or outside this area, prior to the snap.PENALTY: L10Article 5 Sleeper PlayA sleeper play is one in which Team A uses substitution procedures to disguise aplayers presence on the field and eligibility as a potential pass receiver, andthrows a pass to that player.Team A shall not use player substitution as a means of disguising a sleeper play.If following a substitution, a Team A player does not participate in the teamhuddle and takes a position within 11 yards of the Sideline adjacent to the TeamA bench area when the ball is put into play, that player shall be deemed to beineligible as a pass receiver.PENALTY: L10


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Article 6 Error In Number Of PlayersIf through error in substitution or otherwise, a team has more than 12 players onthe field, the offending team shall be penalized.PENALTY: L10SECTION 12 OTHER PERSONNELArticle 1 Team PersonnelIf a person entitled to be in a team bench area (i.e. a substitute player in uniformor one of the other accredited persons) interferes with the play in progress, thatteam shall be subject to penalty as follows:

(a) If the opponent had possession of the ball, the Referee shall award anautomatic touchdown to the opponent.

(b) If the offending persons team had possession, it shall be penalized forillegal interference (L10 PBH or PBD) while the downs shall continue withoutinterruption.

(c) If neither team had possession, the ball shall be awarded to the opponentat the point of recovery with a penalty of half the distance to the Goal Line andthe opponent shall be permitted a series of three downs regardless of the timeremaining in the half.Furthermore, the offending person shall be disqualified from the gameimmediately and subject to disciplinary action by the Commissioner. There shallnot be any additional yardage penalty by reason of the disqualification.Article 2 Other Than Team PersonnelIf a person other than one described in Article 1 should interfere with the play inprogress, the penalty shall be:

(a) If such person interfered to the advantage of the team in possession, thatteam shall be penalized for illegal interference at the point where the ball washeld when the interference occurred.

(b) If such person interfered to the advantage of the team not in possession,the team in possession shall be awarded:

(i) a touchdown score if, in the judgment of the Referee, a touchdownwould have been scored on the play or,

(ii) a penalty of half the distance to the Goal Line from:1.the point where the ball was held when the interference occurred or,2.the point where the ball became dead or,3.the point where the ball was put into play or the team gained

possession, whichever is the greater advantage to the team in possession, plus aseries of three downs regardless of the time remaining in the half.

(c) If such person interferes with the play when the ball is not in possession ofeither team, the Referee shall whistle the play dead immediately. The entire playshall be repeated at the point the ball was previously put into play, with the down,yardage, score and time remaining the same.

(d) If such person interferes with a forward pass play in the Goal Area, the ballshall be awarded to:

(i) Team A at the one-yard line if the interference was to the advantage ofTeam B or,

(ii) Team B at the 10-yard line if the interference was to the advantage ofTeam A.


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NOTE: If the non-offending team is awarded a series of three downs withinsufficient time remaining, it shall be permitted a maximum of three plays fromscrimmage. If that team should score or lose possession, the game will beterminated at the conclusion of that play.


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SECTION 1 DESIGNATION OF OFFICIALSArticle 1 Field Officials Article 2 Sideline Officials1. Referee Downsman2. Umpire Yardsmen3. Back Judge Timekeeper4. Side Judge Communication Coordinator5. Field Judge Countdown Operator6. Head Linesman Scorer7. Line Judge StatisticianSECTION 2 JURISDICTION & DUTIES OF OFFICIALSArticle 1 GeneralAll field officials are equally responsible for the conduct of the game and noagreement shall be undertaken that would prevent the calling of any foul, againsteither team, by an official.Each field official shall be equipped with a whistle and a coloured marker to beused to indicate a foul.The sounding of the whistle shall stop the game.The throwing of a marker indicates that a foul has been committed, but play shallcontinue until its termination.The signal of time in shall be a clockwise sweep of the Referees arm from theoverhead position and the sounding of the Referees whistle.Article 2 The RefereeThe Referee shall take primary charge of the game and shall:

Guide and direct the efforts of the other officials Enforce the rules and apply penalties Adjudicate upon disputes or matters not provided for in the rules Take position behind Team A in order to observe that the ball is put into

play legally and thereafter judge its possession and progress Cover the actions of passers and kickers and the defensive actions of

opponents Cover lateral passes and onside kicks behind the line of scrimmage Be primarily responsible for marking balls Out of Bounds in flight In co-operation with the Head Linesman keep count of the downs and, Notify each team captain when three minutes remain to be played in each

half and furthermore may:o Overrule any other officialo Cause the removal of any Sideline official and, if necessary,o Require the replacement of such Sideline official

Article 3 The UmpireThe Umpire shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players on thescrimmage lines of both teams and shall take a position behind the defensivelinemen (Team B).

RULE 2 - OFFICIALS


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Article 4 The Back JudgeThe Back Judge shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players ofboth teams on Team Bs side of the line of scrimmage and shall be responsiblefor Sideline violations downfield.Article 5 The Side JudgeThe duties of the side judge shall be identical to those of the Back Judge.Article 6 The Field JudgeThe Field Judge shall have jurisdiction over the conduct and actions of players ofboth teams on Team Bs side of the line of scrimmage and shall take a positiondownfield between the hash marks.Article 7 The Head LinesmanThe Head Linesman shall supervise and control the Yardsmen and their actionsin the placement and movement of the yardsticks, under the direction of theReferee. He shall record the number of each down and assist the Referee in thisrespect and shall systematically check the Sideline for player substitutions andensure that only approved substitution procedures are used.Article 8 The Line JudgeWith the exception of:

(a) the supervision and control of the Yardsmen, and,(b) the recording of downs,

the jurisdiction and duties of the Line Judge are identical to those of the HeadLinesman.Article 9 Downsman & YardsmenUnder the direction of the Head Linesman, the Downsman shall place a markerat the forward point of gain or loss after each play and shall indicate the numberof each down on the marker provided.Two Yardsmen shall function on one Sideline under the direction of the HeadLinesman. They shall remain outside the Field of Play unless called to assist inmeasuring for a possible first down. They shall be equipped with two pickets,connected near the lower ends by a chain. The distance between these picketsshall measure 10 yards.A third Yardsman shall be used to hold a single picket on the opposite Sideline tomark the 10-yard objective line. However, such picket shall not be used todetermine whether a first down has been gained.Article 10 Timekeeper & ScorerPrior to the game, the Scorer shall be provided with a complete list of the eligiblecompeting players and the starting lineups, and shall keep a record of all scoringplays in the game.The Timekeeper shall keep the time according to Rule 1, Sections 7 and 8, andshall notify the Head Linesman or Line Judge when three minutes remain in eachhalf.If the scoreboard clock should fail to operate, the Timekeeper shall, prior to thelast minute of play in each quarter, take a position in order to be clearly visible tothe Referee and at the commencement of the last minute of play, shall raise aflag and continue to hold it in a raised position until time has expired in thatquarter.


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SECTION 1 TABLE OF SCORESTouchdown 6 PointsSingle Point or Rouge 1 PointField Goals 3 PointsConvert 1 Point or 2 PointsSafety Touch 2 PointsThe team scoring the majority of points shall be the winner.SECTION 2 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 TouchdownA touchdown is scored when the ball is in possession of a player in theopponents Goal Area, or when the ball in the possession of a player crosses ortouches the plane of the opponents Goal Line. Should the ball subsequently befumbled, or the player in possession forced back into the Field of Play, thetouchdown shall score.After a touchdown, the team scored against may kickoff from its own 35-yard lineor require the scoring team to kickoff from its (scoring teams) 35-yard line.Article 2 Field GoalA field goal is scored by a drop kick or place kick (except on a kickoff) when theball, after being kicked and without again touching the ground, goes over thecross bar and between the goal posts (or goal posts produced) of the opponentsgoal.The ball shall be dead immediately when it crosses the cross bar.After a field goal, the team scored against may scrimmage or kickoff from its own35 yard line or require the scoring team to kickoff from its 35 yard line.AR: Team A attempts a field goal. After the ball is kicked and before crossingthe line of scrimmage, it touches or is touched by a player of either team andthen proceeds through the uprights and over the crossbar in flight. RULINGField Goal.AR: Team A attempts a field goal. After the ball has crossed the line ofscrimmage, it touches or is touched by a Team B player before it proceedsthrough the uprights and above the crossbar in flight. RULING Field Goal.Article 3 Safety TouchA safety touch is scored when the ball becomes dead in the possession of ateam in its own Goal Area, or touches or crosses the Dead Line or a Sideline inGoal as a result of the ball having been carried, kicked, fumbled or otherwisedirected from the Field of Play into the Goal Area by the team scored against, oras a direct result of a kick from scrimmage having been blocked in the Field ofPlay or Goal Area.

RULE 3 - SCORING


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After a safety touch, the options to the scoring team are to:(a) Scrimmage at their own 35-yard line,(b) kickoff from their own 35-yard line or,(c) Accept a kickoff from the 25-yard line of the team who conceded the safety

touch.If while in the act of conceding a safety touch, a team deliberately, in thejudgment of the official, commits a Holding infraction, the score shall count andthe penalty applied at the point where the ball is next put into play.When a Rough Play or Unnecessary Roughness foul is committed on a playduring which a safety touch is scored by the non-offending team, the score shallbe allowed and the penalty assessed from the point where the ball is next put inplay.Article 4 Single Point Or RougeIf the ball is kicked into the Goal Area by an opponent, a rouge is scored:

(1) when the ball becomes dead in possession of a team in its own Goal Areaor,

(2) when the ball touches or crosses the Dead Line or a Sideline in Goal, andtouches the ground, a player or some object beyond these lines.AR: Team A kicks to Team B. B1 attempting to catch the ball on Team Bs 3-yardline, fumbles it and is tackled with the ball in possession in the Team B GoalArea. RULING Rouge (ball deemed to have been kicked into Goal Area byTeam A).AR: Team A kicks to Team B. B1 catches the ball in the Field of Play whilemoving towards own Goal Line and, in the judgment of the official, themomentum carries B1 into own Goal Area. RULING Rouge (possessiondeemed to have been gained in the Goal Area).After a rouge, the team scored against shall next put the ball into play by ascrimmage as first down at any point between the hash marks on its 35-yard line.If the single point was scored as the result of an unsuccessful field goal attempt,the team scored against may elect to scrimmage the ball at any point betweenthe hash marks on its own 35-yard line or at the previous line of scrimmage.NOTE: For the purposes of this Article, a drop kick or place kick shall, withoutexception, be deemed to be a field goal attempt.NOTE: If during a kickoff, the kicked ball proceeds through the Goal Area andacross the Dead Line or Sideline in Goal without being touched, there shall be noscore and the ball shall be awarded to the receiving team at any point betweenthe hash marks on its own 25-yard line.


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Article 5 ConvertA team scoring a touchdown may attempt to add to its score by means of ascrimmage play from any point between the hash marks on or outside theopponents five-yard line, as follows:

1 point By kicking a field goal or,2 points By scoring a touchdown by means of a ball carrying or passing play.

The ball shall remain in play until a score is made or the play has beenterminated.If Team B legally gains possession during an unsuccessful convert attempt (i.e.interception of forward pass, recovery of fumble or blocked kick), it may scoretwo points by advancing the ball across Team As Goal Line. If the playterminates with Team B in possession in its own Goal Area or in the Field ofPlay, there shall be no score.If the play terminates with Team A legally in possession in Team Bs Goal Area,Team A shall be awarded two points if the ball had been carried or passedacross the line of scrimmage, but no points if the ball had been kicked across theline of scrimmage.NOTE: There shall be no convert attempt on the winning touchdown scored inovertime.NOTE: For infraction on convert attempt, see Rule 8, Section 5.SECTION 3 TERMINATING A PLAY IN GOALA player of the team in possession of the ball in its own Goal Area may terminatethe play by dropping to the ground on one knee. The official shall immediatelydeclare the play dead.SECTION 4 MISCELLANEOUSNo score can be made from a kickoff unless the ball, after it is kicked off, istouched by a player of either team within bounds.


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NOTE: Where a violation under this Rule occurs before the ball has beensnapped, the officials are empowered to stop the play and apply the penalty.Such penalty shall apply without option; however, the yardage may be declined.For a violation during the last three minutes of a half, see Rule 1, Section 7,Article 4.SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 Line Of ScrimmageThe line of scrimmage is an imaginary line, extending from Sideline to Sideline,parallel to the Goal Line, and passing through the point of the ball farthest fromTeam As Goal Line.Article 2 Line & BackfieldPlayers of Team A who are within one yard of and on their own side of the line ofscrimmage and are formed in a single line when the ball is put in play, shall beconsidered scrimmage line, or line players. A player, whose head and shouldersare within one yard of the line of scrimmage, shall be deemed to be a line player.A player of Team A is considered to be in the backfield if such player is clearlyback of the line when the ball is put in play. This will also include the playeroccupying the position of quarterback.No player of Team A shall be in a position that will create doubt as to being onthe line or in the backfield, when the ball is put in play.PENALTY: L5Article 3 Scrimmage ZoneThe scrimmage zone is the area extending one yard on each side of the line ofscrimmage and from Sideline to Sideline.Article 4 Defensive LineOn a play from scrimmage, players of Team B must line up at least one yardback of, and on their own side of the line of scrimmage until the ball is put in play.This includes the player giving defensive signals.PENALTY: L5SECTION 2 METHOD OF SCRIMMAGEArticle 1 The CentreAt the commencement of a scrimmage play, one Team A player (the Centre)shall take position facing the opponents Goal Line with the ball on the playingsurface immediately in front and shall put the ball in play by snapping it backbetween the legs in one continuous motion to another Team A player behind theline of scrimmage. The ball must leave the hands of the Centre, who shall nottouch the ball again until it has been in the possession of another player. TheCentre may adjust the ball for the purpose of snapping it, but such adjustment islimited to one time.

RULE 4 - SCRIMMAGE


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NOTE: On a Team A kicking formation, the Centre shall be permitted to move thehead for the purpose of checking the position of an opponent prior to snappingthe ball.Article 2 Illegal MovementTeam A shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offside if:

(a) the quarterback makes a quick movement towards the centre positionwithout the ball being snapped immediately or,

(b) the quarterback, having assumed a stance with hands under the centre,bobs the head, moves the shoulders or flexes the knees in a jerking motionwithout the ball being snapped or,

(c) the quarterback, having assumed a stance with hands under the centre,moves away without the ball being snapped.Team A shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offside if:

(a) the centre fakes a snap, without snapping the ball or moves the ballforward.

(b) the centre, having assumed a stance holding the ball, bobs the head,moves the shoulders or flexes the knees without snapping the ball.PENALTY: L5Either team shall be subject to penalty for attempting to draw an opponent offsideif a player makes a motion or voices a signal that, in the judgment of the official,is intended to draw an opponent offside. This shall include a snap down into atwo or three point stance by an offensive lineman.PENALTY: L5Article 3 Offside At The SnapTeam A players must be completely behind the line of scrimmage, except thatthe head, arms and hands of the centre may be in advance of the line ofscrimmage.If a Team A player clearly crosses the line of scrimmage by more than one yard,prior to the snap of the ball, the officials shall stop the play immediately and applya penalty.

PENALTY: L5If a Team B player is offside on his own one-yard line.PENALTY: Team A shall be awarded a first down or score made.


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If a Team B player goes offside and contacts an opponent or breaks the plane ofthe line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped, the officials shall stop the playimmediately and award the penalty, subject to the right of Team A to decline theyardage penalty and order the same down to be repeated as though a foul hadnot occurred. If the Team B player is within one yard of the line of scrimmagewhen the ball is snapped, the play shall continue, subject to the penalty againstTeam B.If a Team B player enters the neutral zone within one yard of the line ofscrimmage causing a Team A player in the immediate proximity to move beforethe ball is snapped, Team B shall be subject to a penalty for offside.If players of both teams are offside on the same play, the same down shall berepeated without penalty from the point of last scrimmage.A player of either team who is offside and contacts an opponent, even thoughresuming an onside position prior to the snap, shall be penalized for beingoffside.Team A may put the ball into play without waiting for Team B players to beonside, but an offside penalty cannot be claimed against Team B. Such anoffside player shall not interfere with the play in any manner.PENALTY: L5SECTION 3 INTERFERENCEArticle 1 General DefinitionInterference takes place when a player obstructs, blocks, screens or chargestowards an opponent, with or without direct contact, in such a manner thatprevents the opponents approach to the ball carrier, potential ball carrier or theball. Blocking is identified as the act of creating interference with contact.Article 2 By Team A

(a) On a play from scrimmage, a Team A player may interfere with anopponent from Dead Line to Dead Line commencing from the instant the ball issnapped, except in the case of:

(i) a play during which a forward pass is thrown across the line ofscrimmage or,

(ii) a play during which the ball is kicked across the line of scrimmage.(b) For interference on a forward pass play, see Rule 6, Section 4, Article 8.(c) On a kicking play, a Team A player may interfere with an opponent up to

one yard in advance of the line of scrimmage.(d) A Team A player may use hands, open or closed, and may thrust them

forward to contact an opponent, provided that the hands are kept inside theelbows and contact is made from the front or side of the opponent within theframe of the opponents body that is presented to the blocker.

(e) Hands may not be thrust forward above the frame to contact the opponenton the neck, face or head.PENALTY: L10


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Article 3 By Team B(a) On any play from scrimmage, a Team B player may use hands and arms

to reach the ball carrier, but shall not hold or encircle any Team A player, otherthan the ball carrier.PENALTY: L10

(b) For interference on a forward pass play, see Rule 6, Section 4, Article 8(b).(c) For interference on a kicking play, see Rule 5, Section 4, Article 4.

Article 4 Illegal Block-Hands To The FaceNo player of either team may thrust his hands forward above the frame to contactthe opponent on the neck, face, head or facemask. This does not apply to a ballcarrier using a stiff arm or straight arm tactic where there is no grasping of theface mask.PENALTY: L10SECTION 4 PLACEMENT OF THE BALLArticle 1 After A ScoreWhen the ball is placed in play by the Referee after a scoring play, after the ballhas been declared dead in the end zone, or following the application of a penaltyfor a foul in goal or a foul on a convert, Team A may elect to scrimmage the ballat any point between the hash marks.Article 2 Within 24 Yards Of A SidelineIf the ball becomes dead within 24 yards of either Sideline, or goes Out ofBounds, it shall next be scrimmaged 24 yards in from such Sideline at theyardage point where it becomes dead.Article 3 Within 1 Yard Of Goal LineIf Team A has possession of the ball within one yard of either Goal Line, it shallbe scrimmaged one yard out from such Goal Line.Article 4 Within 15 Yards Of Own GoalWhen, on third down, Team A scrimmages on or within its own 15-yard line,Team A may position the ball away from the goal posts towards the closestSideline, but not closer than 24 yards to such Sideline.Article 5 Within 10 Yards Of Own GoalIf Team A is scrimmaging within 10 yards of its own Goal Line, it shall bepermitted to have the ball moved out to the nearest hash mark.SECTION 5 PLAYER RESTRICTIONSArticle 1 Seven Players On LineAt the instant the ball is put in play, at least seven players of Team A must bewithin one yard, and on their own side of the line of scrimmage. This does notinclude the player in the position usually occupied by the quarterback.Conversely, Team A can never have more than five players, including thequarterback, in backfield positions.PENALTY: L5


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Article 2 StanceNo line player of Team A, except the centre, having assumed a three-point orfour-point stance, may legally move the head, body, arms, hand, legs or feet untilthe ball is snapped.PENALTY: L5Article 3 Identification & PositionsOn all scrimmage plays at least five line players, including the centre, shall beidentified as ineligible pass receivers and must be positioned in a continuous,unbroken line. In addition, one player at each end of the line shall be identifiedas an eligible pass receiver.Any other Team A player is an eligible pass receiver, if so identified by playingnumber and, at the snap of the ball, is occupying a backfield position at least oneyard back of the line of scrimmage.NOTE: Team A Players shall be identified by numbering as follows:

Eligible receivers will wear numbers from 0-49 and 70-00.Ineligible receivers will wear numbers from 50-69.

NOTE: Notwithstanding this article, a Team A player wearing an eligible receivernumber may enter the game at an ineligible receiver position under the followingcircumstances:

(a) On a third down play or,(b) On a convert attempt or,(c) On a first or second down kicking formation in the last minute of a quarter,

provided that prior to the game, Team A declared to the Referee a list of eligiblynumbered players who may be so deployed and such eligibly numbered playersshall not be eligible as pass receivers, regardless of the position occupied on thatplay.At any time during the game, an eligibly numbered player may be added to thelist by entering the field of play and reporting to the Referee.If an eligibly numbered player who is not on the list participates at an ineligiblereceiver position (within one yard of the line of scrimmage tackle to tackle), histeam will be warned once and his number will be added to the list.A maximum of 2 players wearing an ineligible number (50 69) will be allowed toline up in an eligible position as an end or in the backfield after reporting to thereferee prior to a scrimmage play. The referee will inform the opposing team andall officials of the player number and position he will be playing.PENALTY: L5


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Article 4 Linemen In MotionNo player of Team A, who is within one yard of the line of scrimmage, shall bemoving towards the opponents Goal Line when the ball is put in play.All Team A players positioned in the scrimmage zone from offensive tackle tooffensive tackle inclusive, or having assumed a three-point or four-point stancewithin one yard of the line of scrimmage, shall be required to remain motionlessfor at least one second immediately prior to the snap of the ball.EXCEPTION: Rule 6, Section 4, Article 4, Note 4Article 5 Designated QuarterbackPrior to the game, a team is required to designate three players who shall bepermitted to alternate for each other during the game at the quarterback positionexclusively. Not more than one such player may be in the game at any time andnone of the three can enter the game as a member of Team B.PENALTY: L25 PLS DR or L25 PBD or optionNOTE: For the purposes of this Article 5, the duties of the quarterback positionmay include punting, place kicking and kicking off. If a team designates threequarterbacks for a game, the player designated as the third quarterback shall notbe eligible for kicking duties.Article 6 Designated ImportIf a team is using its full complement of import players, it shall, prior to the game,designate three import players as special teams players, who shall be permittedto enter the game at another position, only on the understanding that anotherimport player is required to leave the game for that play. Such player may enterthe game on an unrestricted basis, only if another import player is removed forthe balance of the game.If a designated import participates in the game illegally:PENALTY: L25 PLS DR or L25 PBD or option.SECTION 6 SERIES OF DOWNSArticle 1 10 Yards On Three DownsTeam A shall have three downs in which to gain the required distance of 10yards. A down may be repeated following the application of a penalty againsteither team. If in a series of three downs, Team A has not gained the required 10yards, the ball shall be awarded to the opponents as first down at the point wherethe ball becomes dead. If the required 10 yards are gained, a new series ofdowns begins.Article 2 Consecutive DownsConsecutive shall mean possession in a continuous series of downs in whichthe ball is in possession of the one team.


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Article 3 Continuity Of DownsThe continuity of downs is interrupted:

(a) When the ball, having been kicked, other than dribbled, crosses the line ofscrimmage.

(b) When on a scrimmage play, the ball is dribbled by Team B.(c) When the ball definitely passes into possession of opponents. Touching

the ball by opponents is not possession.(d) When the required distance is gained.(e) When the ball is kicked Out of Bounds.

Article 4 Position Of Ball In MeasuringIn measuring for downs, the forward point of the ball, and not its centre, shall bethe determining point and the ball, before measuring, shall be rotated so that itslong axis is parallel to the Sidelines. A touchdown cannot be awarded as a resultof such rotation.NOTE: When Team A has failed to gain the distance required for a first down andthe ball is awarded to Team B, the Referee shall reverse the ball in order to havethe forward point facing in the opposite direction.


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SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSArticle 1 Kicked BallA kicked ball is one struck by a players foot or leg below the knee.NOTE: If the ball accidentally strikes a players leg or foot, it shall not be ruled asa kicked ball.Article 2 Drop KickA drop kick is made by dropping the ball from the hands and kicking it with thefoot just as it rises from the ground.Article 3 Place KickA place kick is made by kicking the ball after it has been placed on the groundand held by a Team A player, who shall be considered offside with reference tothe position of the ball.On a kickoff, the ball may be held, placed on the ground or placed on a tee,provided that the lowest part of the ball shall be raised not more than threeinches above the playing surface.On a field goal or convert attempt, a kicking tee may be used provided that theball shall be raised not more than one inch above the playing surface.Article 4 PuntA punt is made by letting the ball fall from the hands and kicking it with the footbefore it touches the ground.Article 5 Dribbled BallA dribbled ball occurs when the ball is kicked while not in possession or control ofa player, i.e. a loose ball following a fumble, a blocked kick, a kickoff or a kickfrom scrimmage. Such a dribbled ball may be touched by the kicker or an onsideplayer without penalty.If touched by an offside player:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at point ball touched, or option.If touched by an offside player in the opponents Goal Area:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at its 25-yard line, or option.If touched by an offside player in own Goal Area:PENALTY: Ball awarded to opponent at 10-yard line, or option.NOTE: If the touching by an offside player occurs on the last play of a half, theopponent may elect to extend the period for an additional play.NOTE: A ball dribbled by Team A across the line of scrimmage does not interruptthe continuity of downs.NOTE: A dribbled ball that strikes a goal post shall remain in play.

RULE 5 - KICKING


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NOTE: When a ball is dribbled and recovered by Team A, they may not blockbelow the waist.Article 6 Onside & OffsideAn onside player is a member of the kickers team who is behind the ball at theinstant it is kicked towards the opponents Dead Line.An offside player is a member of the kickers team who is not onside.An offside player becomes an onside player when the ball, after being kickedtowards the opponents Dead Line, touches or is touched by an opponent, thekicker or another onside player.EXCEPTION: On a kick from scrimmage, if a Team B player touches the ballbefore it crosses the line of scrimmage, such touching does not put an offsideplayer of Team A onside.Article 7 Application Of PenaltiesUnder this Rule 5, the penalty for any infraction that occurs after the ball hasbeen kicked and before possession has been gained by the receiving team shallbe applied as follows:

(a) Foul by kicking team (Other than Illegal Interference by the kicking teamafter a kick from scrimmage or No Yards to kick receiver or failure to kickoff 10yards): at point of last scrimmage, or point of kickoff, or point of actual kick on anopen-field kick, as the case may be. If the open-field kick originates in the GoalArea, the penalty shall be applied at the 10-yard line.

(b) Foul by receiving team (Other than Contacting the Kicker or IllegalBlocking of the kicker or an onside player.): at point receiving team gainspossession or is entitled to possession. If the possession was gained in the GoalArea, the penalty shall be applied from the receiving teams 10-yard line.SECTION 2 KICKOFFArticle 1 Points Of KickoffThe ball shall be kicked off by a place kick from any point between the hashmarks on Team As:

(a) 35-yard line at the start of the game, or any half, or after a touchdown.(b) 35-yard line after a score of three points by the kicking team, or the team

scored against may elect to put the ball in play by kickoff from its own 35-yardline.

(c) 25-yard line after a score of two points against the kicking team or thescoring team may elect to put the ball in play by kickoff or scrimmage from itsown 35-yard line.Article 2 Legal Kickoff

(a) The ball, unless touched by an opponent, must be kicked more than 10yards towards the opponents Goal Line before it may be legally touched by amember of Team A.PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated or Team B may take possession at the point theball was first touched by Team A or option.

(b) The ball, unless touched, shall not go Out of Bounds in the Field of Play.


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PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated; or Team B may take possession either 30 yardsin advance of where the ball was kicked or at the point where the ball went out ofbounds.

(c) Should the ball be kicked Out of Bounds in the receiving teams Goal Areawithout being touched by a player of either team, there shall be no penalty andthe ball shall next be put in play by the receiving team at its 25-yard line.

(d) Should the kicked ball strike the goal post assembly in flight, it shall bedeclared dead immediately and awarded to the receiving team at its 25-yard line.

(e) If the kicked ball is simultaneously recovered by players of both teams or issimultaneously touched by players of both teams before going Out of Bounds,the kickoff shall be repeated.Article 3 Offside On Kickoff - Team AAt the instant the ball is kicked off, no player of the kicking team shall be inadvance of the ball except the player who may be holding the ball for suchkickoff.PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated, or option.Article 4 Offside On Kickoff - Team BPlayers of the receiving team must stand at least 10 yards on their own side ofthe line of kickoff when the ball is kicked.PENALTY: L5 kickoff repeated, or option.Article 5 Interference By Team BOn a kickoff, a player of the receiving team may interfere with an opponentanywhere within bounds, commencing from the moment the ball is kicked,provided that contact is made only above the waist of the opponent.PENALTY: L10 PBH or PPGArticle 6 Interference By Team A

(a) Before gaining possession: A player of the kicking team shall not bepermitted to interfere with an opponent who is attempting to play or recover theball until that team has gained possession.PENALTY: L10 kickoff repeated, or option

(b) After gaining possession: If a player of the kicking team recovers the ballon the kickoff, that team may then interfere with opponents anywhere withinbounds, provided that contact is made only above the waist of the opponent.PENALTY: L10 PBHArticle 7 Gaining Possession On A KickoffOn a kickoff, a player who catches the ball must come down in bounds to gainpossession. If the player was the last to touch the ball, either he or the ball mustcome down in bounds for possession to be awarded.


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SECTION 3 BLOCKED KICKArticle 1 DefinitionA blocked kick is a kick from scrimmage in which, after being kicked, the ball isprevented from crossing the line of scrimmage because of contact with anopponent or a player of the kicking team who is offside.It is a deflected kick not a blocked kick if, on a kick from scrimmage, the ball istouched by or touches an opponent or a player of the kicking team who is offsideand then crosses the line of scrimmage. Such touching of the ball shall bedisregarded, and the Kicking team players must allow 5 yards to an opponentattempting to gain possession.If the kicked ball, after being touched prior to crossing the line of scrimmage,should strike any part of the receiving teams goal post assembly in flight withouttouching the ground, an official or a player, it shall be declared dead immediatelyand awarded to the receiving team on its 25-yard line.Article 2 Recovery Of Blocked KickIf the ball is blocked, without going Out of Bounds, it may legally be recovered bya player of either team. If, however, the ball is recovered by a player of thekicking team, the continuing play shall be considered as any other play fromscrimmage.Article 3 Blocked Out of BoundsWhere a kick is blocked and the ball goes Out of Bounds:

(a) On first and second down, it shall belong to the team last touching it in theField of Play, 24 yards in from the Sideline:

(1) at the point where the ball left the Field of Play or,(2) at the point where the ball was last touched in the Field of Play,

whichever point is closer to the Goal Line of the team entitled to possession.(b) On third down, it shall belong to the non-kicking team at either of the points

set out in (a) above.Article 4 Blocked Into Goal AreaWhen a kick is blocked in the Field of Play or Goal Area, and is declared dead inthe Goal Area in possession of the kicking team, or goes Out of Bounds in theGoal Area without either team taking possession, a safety touch score shall beawarded to the non-kicking team. No Option.SECTION 4 KICK FROM SCRIMMAGE AND OPEN-FIELD KICKArticle 1 Restriction On Offside Player (No Yards)

(This article does not apply to a dribbled ball.)When on a kick from scrimmage (ball crosses the line of scrimmage), or on anopen-field kick, a player who is offside in relation to the kicker:

(a) if the pla

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